New South Wales coach Laurie Daley is anxiously awaiting updates on the fitness of Mitch Barnett, a key player for the team, after he sustained an injury during a match against the Rabbitohs. Barnett, who played a crucial role in NSW’s victory in the recent State of Origin opener, was serving as backup for the Warriors on Sunday.
The incident occurred midway through the first half when Barnett awkwardly landed while attempting to tackle Jayden Sullivan, immediately signalling distress and clutching his leg. Fox League commentator Steve Roach reported on Barnett’s condition, stating, “Mitch Barnett hasn’t moved,” highlighting concerns for the front-rower.
Roach continued, noting that while the situation looked serious, Barnett’s resilience was undeniable. “He’s as tough as teak. He won’t want to leave the field,” he remarked as Barnett remained down while receiving attention from the club’s medical staff. After over a minute, he attempted to stand but ultimately limped off, visibly frustrated.
Following the match, sideline reporter Jake Duke confirmed Barnett would not return and would likely require scans to assess the injury further. In the meantime, action on the field continued with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak opening the scoring for the Warriors at Accor Stadium, though the Rabbitohs responded with a try from Keoan Koloamatangi.
South Sydney took the lead thanks to Alex Johnston in the 27th minute, only for Rocco Berry to bring the score closer shortly thereafter. The situation became more complicated for the Rabbitohs when star fullback Latrell Mitchell was removed for a head injury assessment, later cleared to return by medical staff classified him as category two.
With Mitchell off the pitch, the Warriors capitalised and took a 14-12 lead following a try by Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad. The game highlighted both teams’ resilience amid player setbacks, painting a tense picture for the rest of the match as Barnett’s status remains uncertain moving forward. Murmurs of concern about his availability for upcoming fixtures add to the stakes for both Daley and the NSW squad.